Yared Nuguse: Pride in Every Stride

Ever since I came out, I feel like I've had this weight lifted off me.

I met Julian (Falco) in November of 2023. At the time, I was like, 'We are going to be great friends,' because we just have so much in common. I'd never really met someone who was that nerdy type of person that I myself am.

We officially started dating in March of 2024. So it took some time, but any good love story takes time.

I had all these worries, doubts and fears in my own head. But when Julian showed up, all of those just vanished. I wanted people to know we were together so badly.

I never really imagined that I could be free from all these clouds in my head, but he showed me that it was possible. If there's anyone wondering whether they should come out, you should be proud of yourself, and hopefully, you're able to do that whenever you feel ready.

It feels like a culmination of everything I've learned is being put to the test. I know I can achieve it, but if I don't start believing in myself now, it's going to be too late come 2028.